Other celebrities attending included actor Nick Moran, boxer Chris Eubank and television presenter Dani Behr, with all of the lower reaches of the guest list failing to distract the crowd from their idol.

Cruise's performance more than satisfied the crowd

In the bleak futuristic thriller, Cruise plays a policeman in Washington DC in 2054 where crime is predicted in advance.

His walkabout was in sharp contrast to that of Britney Spears, who caused dismay among fans when she whisked into the venue at the recent UK prèmiere of Crossroads.

Liz Moore, 18, one of the many quivering fans to shake hands with Cruise, said: "He is so sweet. He stays so long, unlike Britney Spears when nobody got to see her.

"It is important that he spends time with the fans because he knows they make him."

"She wished him a happy birthday for next week and said goodbye. She loved it."

As well as hardcore fans and passing tourists, the square was peppered with celebrating Brazilians, many drunk on caipirinha cocktails as well as football success.

Their chants of "Brasil, Brasil" and fluttering yellow and green flags must have been lost on the Mission Impossible star as he walked around the square.

But nothing could interrupt Cruise's dazzle, not visibly affected by strongly-denied reports his relationship with Penelope Cruz is on the rocks.

Balcony reprise

Cruz was absent, away filming, as was the project's director, Spielberg.

But Cruise was clearly feeling so good he came back out onto the balcony of the cinema after his walkabout and stood above flickering torches, beaming and waving before finally entering the auditorium.

When all of the Japanese football crowd-style whistling and squealing subsided, it was clear London still has a soft spot in Cruise's heart.

Other celebrities failed to excite the crowd

He said: "It's really nice to spend time here and I am always very excited about coming to London.

"I am always surprised that so many people show up to see me and I just want
them to know how much I appreciate it."